I have been struggling with this month’s Bloggers for Peace challenge, which is one of the reasons it is nearing the end of April as I complete this post.
All I can offer are my opinions which are not based on my childhood experience of anger, sexism, racism and abuse due to my step father’s narrow minded and twisted view of life. I believed everything I was told, it was not until I moved from home that I discovered there was so much more to life than tv game shows, compulsive gambling and domestic violence. Thank goodness my mother escaped from the years of hell she endured for the sake of us kids.
The dark swan is not evil because of its colour, just as the dark shadow of youth within me is not evil. Both have the ability to be free.
Something of my inner child remains hiding deep inside. It surfaces in moments of playfulness and delight. I believe that children need love and care combined with exposure to as broad as possible points of view, information, people and attitudes. Guardians need to be available to answer their questions and to help them find their own way through the maze of stereotypes and punitive attitudes society will throw in their way.
Enable the children to find freedom and peace where it exists for them.
References:
Good guys and bad guy – teaching my children about peace
B4peace how do we raise children to be peaceful
Out and about at 13
Bloggers for Peace website
theINFP 
Very beautiful swan.
Thank you, I was pleased I had my camera with me in the park as I haven’t seen them since
Robert, this post brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for your honesty and insight. The line that really struck a chord with me was “The dark swan is not evil because of its colour, just as the dark shadow of youth within me is not evil. Both have the ability to be free.” Yes, we all have the ability to be free, no matter what may have happened in our past. Thank you so much for this heart-felt post for peace. {{{hugs}}} Kozo
Thank you Kozo 🙂
This story touched me, you have the gift to write…
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment 🙂
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I haven’t done a post this month Robert, I struggled with this one too..yours is a lovely post and I’m sorry for those moments which weren’t peaceful in your childhood x annie
Thank you Annie for your kind words and thoughts, Robert
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Thanks for this.
You’re welcome 🙂
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Well said and I love the swan too.
Thank you for letting me know 🙂
I’m finally following up with everyone — this post is/was a winner in the April B4Peace giveaway, so please let me know a mailing address. I’m at tegbook @ hotmail.com
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Thank you for nominating my blog for this award 🙂
Thank you Robert for sharing your childhood experiences. Each one of has some hidden secrets and only brave people like you have courage to let it go from deep down dark and gloomy part of your life. Wishing you love, peace and more wisdom with light ❤
Thank you for your kind words, Tanveer.
my pleasure